How to Water in a Greenhouse

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How to Water in a Greenhouse

Overview

Correct watering technique is a vital aspect of greenhouse gardening. With its enclosed environment, a greenhouse ecosystem must be closely monitored to ensure healthy plant growth. The most common problem associated with greenhouse watering is increased humidity. Excess water spraying on tables or spilling on floors stays trapped in the greenhouse. As it evaporates, it increases humidity in the greenhouse, which can lead to the growth of fungi and the development of plant disease.

Step 1

Water your plants with a gentle stream of water to avoid splashing. If one plant is infected with a fungal infection or other disease, it is easily spread by water splashing off the plant's foliage or soil surface.

Step 2

Water plant containers until water just begins to drip out of the drainage holes in the bottom of the container, then stop. Avoid creating water puddles on the floor through excess watering. If a significant amount of water has collected after watering your plants, mop it up to avoid increasing the humidity level in the greenhouse.

Step 3

Use a misting attachment on your hose to water young seedlings, as they are so delicate.

Step 4

Check moisture levels in the various soils daily by inserting a finger. Keep germinating seeds and seedlings constantly moist with regular watering. Only water adult plants when the top 1/3 of their containers dry out. Over-watering can lead to root rot.

Step 5

Water early in the morning so the plant's tissue dries by evening.

Things You'll Need

Hose

Misting attachment

Mop

References

Greenhouse Catalog: Watering Plants in your Greenhouse

University of Massachusettes: Greenhouse Management/Engineering

West Virginia University: Planning and Building a Greenhouse

The Farm: Greenhouse Gardening Tips

Keywords:
water greenhouse, greenhouse irrigation, water plants

About this Author

Emma Gin is a freelance writer who specializes in green, healthy and smart living. She is currently working on developing a weight-loss website that focuses on community and re-education. Gin is also working on a collection of short stories, because she knows what they say about idle hands.